Evidence Shows Water Contaminated by “Fracking”

Evidence shows water contaminated by “fracking”

I recently viewed the documentary Gasland and was appalled at what has been happening in our country regarding hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking. Fracking is a controversial drilling technique used by the oil and gas industry that has injected millions of tons of highly toxic chemical fluids into the ground to break apart shale and release natural gas.

Problems with drinking water that can be traced to fracking in Colorado are documented in Gasland. One graphic example is tap water actually catching on fire.

Fracking was exempted from the Safe Water Drinking Act in the 2005 Energy Bill and now scientists believe this process is poisoning our drinking water. As time has gone by more facts are coming to light showing the damage being caused and the American lives being placed at risk.

A few members of Congress — Representatives Diana DeGette, Jared Polis, and Maurice Hinchey — have introduced the Fracturing Responsibility and Awareness of Chemicals Act in the U.S. House while Senators Bob Casey and Chuck Schumer have introduced the companion bill in the U.S. Senate. These bills provide common sense regulation of hydraulic fracturing. They require companies to divulge the chemicals being used and close a loophole that exempts drilling operators from safe drinking water regulations.

This is the third time that legislation such as this has been introduced. It is time for citizens to lobby Congress for appropriate regulation of this industry.

This is not a partisan issue. This is about safe drinking water.

If you have a chance, see the movie Gasland, and please call Congress and support this Act. The life you save may be your own.